The Grand Priory of Sweden are honoured to announce the establishment of our newest priory: the Priory of Sveti (Saint) Antun, based in Croatia. This marks not only a significant step in the growth of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St John in the region, but also the inception of our first formal domestic aid and charity programme there.
Earthquake Relief Mission – December 2020
On 29 December 2020, a devastating earthquake struck central Croatia. With a magnitude of 6.4 on the Richter scale, its epicentre near the towns of Petrinja, Sisak, and Glina—approximately 50 kilometres southeast of Zagreb – left widespread destruction in its wake. Buildings were levelled, lives were lost, and many communities were thrown into crisis.
Moved to act, Serving Sister Lena Mårdfalk and Serving Brother Branco Scarec of the Grand Priory of Sweden undertook an extraordinary humanitarian journey. With their vehicle loaded with essential supplies, they drove from Stockholm to Croatia—covering more than 2,150 kilometres over a day and a half—to reach the affected area. Once in Zagreb, they continued another two hours by road to reach the devastated zone, navigating challenging conditions to offer aid directly where it was most needed.
In discussion en route, they resolved not to donate the funds they carried to large international charities but to deliver targeted, point-of-need support. This decision proved effective, allowing them to directly address immediate gaps on the ground.
The prior establishment of the Priory of Sveti Antun greatly facilitated their efforts, enabling swift coordination with local contacts and aid organisations. On arrival, they joined a broad coalition of responders—fire services, alpine rescue teams from Italy and Croatia, and other international bodies. Amid the chaos, one lesson became clear: visibility matters. Without clear identification, volunteers can be overlooked or even obstructed. In response, the Grand Priory of Sweden commissioned 20 branded high-visibility vests to be issued to members conducting aid work, both within Sweden and abroad.
Sister Lena and Brother Branco remained on site for five days, during which another significant tremor (measuring 5.8) struck on the third day of their mission. Despite the risk, they continued their efforts with resolve and humility.
Since that time, the Grand Priory of Sweden has continued collecting essential items—including clothing, shoes, bedding, and towels—in preparation for a second humanitarian mission. This is expected to proceed shortly, subject to conditions related to the ongoing pandemic.
A Call to Support
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have already offered support—whether financial, logistical, or in kind. However, the needs in the affected regions remain acute, and the rebuilding effort is far from over.
If you would like to contribute to this cause, we welcome donations and assistance. For more information or to offer support, please contact His Excellency the Grand Chancellor, Harry Jaantola.
Together, through faith, fellowship and practical action, we continue to serve those in greatest need.